Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, With the Annual Message of the President Transmitted to Congress December 7, 1896, and the Annual Report of the Secretary of State

Mr. Chapin to the President.

[Telegram.]

Durban, May 29, 1896.

Hammond returned to Pretoria from Cape Town after the other leaders had pleaded guilty, by the advice of counsel, to a minor form of treason, the statute penalty for which they understood would be banishment. Against his judgment Hammond also agreed to plead guilty to the same charge, but judge unexpectedly interpreted plea and facts so as to bring them in under the old Roman Dutch law, penalty under which may be death. Hammond confident he can prove his innocence if case can be reviewed. * * *

Chapin.